Atlantic City Man with Extensive Criminal Record Held for Stealing from Firehouse

ATLANTIC CITY, N.J. — Johnny Carter, 56, was ordered held without bail Wednesday after being accused of stealing a $250 DeWalt circular saw from an Atlantic City fire station. The theft occurred around 5:30 p.m. last Friday at Fire Station 3, located at Indiana and Grant avenues. After the incident, Carter allegedly fled the scene and was later found looking into a nearby residence where he does not live.
Carter’s criminal history includes nearly 30 prior convictions. Records show 28 indictable convictions, including two involving violent crimes, and at least 21 convictions that resulted in incarceration of 14 days or more. He also has 10 disorderly persons convictions, mostly related to shoplifting or burglary. He currently has three pending cases, including attempted theft and hindering.
At a virtual detention hearing, Carter’s defense attorney described him as struggling with substance abuse and withdrawal. The attorney said Carter could be a candidate for drug court and would seek inpatient treatment for him. Judge Joseph Levin ordered Carter to remain jailed, citing a public safety assessment that classified him as high risk under bail reform guidelines. Carter will stay in custody pending either the reopening of his detention hearing for treatment or until his case is resolved.